Lawmakers at the Delta State House of Assembly in Asaba, On Tuesday, October 7, 2025, held a spirited and lively debate before moving the Violence Against Persons (Amendment) Bill through its second reading.
The proposed amendment aims to address loopholes in the current law that have allegedly been exploited by some security personnel to intimidate or harass citizens under the pretext of enforcing morality or public decency.
Kicking off the debate, Hon. Omonade Matthew Onojighofia, who represents Ughelli North 1 and is the lead sponsor of the amendment bill, called on fellow lawmakers to ensure the law is enforced fairly and with a sense of responsibility.
“As a responsive Assembly, it’s our duty to make sure no officer harasses or intimidates Deltans under the guise of correction,” he said.
Backing the motion, the Member representing Oshimili North described the amendment as a much-needed move to protect citizens from abuse.
“This is about curbing misconduct and preserving people’s dignity,” he noted.
Also contributing, the Member representing Bomadi emphasized the importance of ensuring that penalties under the law are proportionate to the offences committed.
“Lesser offences shouldn’t carry overly harsh punishments,” he said.
While the majority of lawmakers voiced support for the amendment, a few expressed concerns about how it might impact the day-to-day work of law enforcement.
House Leader Hon. Emeka Nwaobi highlighted that the existing law leaves room for misuse by security agencies, especially when it comes to accusations of indecent dressing.
“This kind of treatment violates the fundamental human rights of Deltans,” he said.
However, the Deputy Leader raised objections to a part of the amendment that would require a court order before making certain arrests, expressing concern over its practicality.
He warned that judges often aren’t available at night to issue those kinds of orders, and that police shouldn’t be restricted when swift action is necessary.
Lawmakers from Isoko North, Burutu 2, Warri South 2, and Aniocha South as well as the Chief Whip also voiced worries that the bill might make it harder for the police to do their job effectively.
After a lot of careful discussion, the House decided to move the bill forward. It was then sent to the Committees on Rules and Business and Judiciary for a closer review.
Read also: Delta Assembly moves to repeal outdated Security Law
